THE SEARCH FOR THE 7TH BISHOP of the Episcopal Diocese …552f034884349e39c21b-8b875e3029bffbbb2ae26854c7c51bc8.r80.cf2.rackcdn.…Gayle Kesinger, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas

THE SEARCH FOR THE 7TH BISHOPof the Episcopal Diocese Of Dallas

STANDING COMMITTEE

The Rev. David S. Houk, President, St. John’s - DallasRobert Hulsey, St. Andrew’s - McKinneyThe Rev. William J. Cavanaugh, Epiphany - RichardsonG. Thomas Graves, III, Incarnation - DallasThe Rev. Michael R. Gilton, St. Paul’s - ProsperCathleen Dolt, St. James - Dallas

SEARCH COMMITTEE

The Rev. Bob Johnston, Chairman, Incarnation - Dallas;PT�4HJR��,_�6ɉJPV��:[��4H[[OL^»Z�*H[OLKYHS�� DallasThe Rev. Bill Cavanaugh, Epiphany, RichardsonThe Rev. David Faulkner, St. James - Texarkana;OL�9L]��(T`�/LSSLY��,:+�;YHUZÄN\YH[PVU��+HSSHZ�The Rev. Ed Monk, St. John’s - CorsicanaThe Rev. Jerry Morriss, St. James - KempThe Rev. Tony Munoz, St. Matthew’s - Dallas The Rev. Greg Pickens, Saint Michael and All Angels - DallasThe Rev. Betsy Randall, Epiphany - RichardsonThe Rev. Craig Reed, St. Andrew’s - Farmer’s BranchThe Rev. Deacon Phil Snyder, Trinity - Dallas*OYPZ�(`LYZ��;YHUZÄN\YH[PVU��+HSSHZKalita Beck-Blessing, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas Gary Brown, Incarnation - DallasStuart Bush, Incarnation - Dallas Robert Hulsey, St. Andrew’s - McKinneyJolayne Lacour, St. David of Wales - DentonBill McGannon, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas Jim Riggert, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas Lee Spence, St. Dunstan’s - Mineola Matt Stroud, St. Nicholas - Flower Mound

TRANSITION COMMITTEE

Anthony Briggle, Chairman, Saint Michael and All Angels - DallasJolayne LaCour, St. David’s - DentonThe Rev. Catherine Thompson, Annuciation - Lewisville The Rev. Michael Mills, Good Shepherd - DallasMatt Stroud, St. Nicholas - Flower Mound;OL�9L]��+H]PK�/V\R��,_�6ɉJPV��:[��1VOU»Z��+HSSHZTom Graves, Incarnation - DallasDon Mills, Good Shepherd - DallasGayle Kesinger, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas

A Letter from the President of the Standing Committee

A bishop in God’s holy Church is called to be one with the apostles in pro-claiming Christ’s resurrection and interpreting the Gospel, and to testify

to Christ’s sovereignty as Lord of lords and King of kings. You are called to guard the faith, unity, and discipline of the Church; to celebrate and to provide for the administration of the sacraments of the New Covenant; to ordain priests and deacons and to join in ordaining bishops; and to be in all things a faithful WHZ[VY�HUK�ÔVSLZVTL�L_HTWSL�MVY�[OL�LU[PYL�ÅVJR�VM�*OYPZ[� So begins the Examination in the Prayer Book’s rite for ordaining a bish-op. On August 19, 2014, the Standing Committee charged a Bishop Search Committee to produce a slate of candidates who embody the words above, to identify four-to-seven individuals who were Christ-centered, Gospel-commit-ted, devoted to the faith and unity of the Church. In our charge to the committee, we asked them to keep in mind the val-ues of our diocese, also embodied in the ordination rite: “We are a Catholical-ly-minded diocese, committed to sacramental ministry, the Apostolic Tradition, and grateful for the Christian theological and moral vision that we have inherit-ed. We are an evangelistically-minded diocese, with our allegiance to Scripture and our commitment to proclaim Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord to all people. ;OL�]HS\LZ�HUK�WYPVYP[PLZ�VM�[OL�JHUKPKH[LZ�JOVZLU�MVY�[OL�ZSH[L�ZOV\SK�YLÅLJ[�these deep commitments, originally brought to the frontier by Bishop Charles (SL_HUKLY�.HYYL[[�HUK�Z[PSS�KLÄUP[P]L�VM�V\Y�KPVJLZL�[VKH �̀¹� The Bishop Search Committee has done outstanding work. What you will read in these pages is the fruit of twenty-one men and women from around the diocese, lay and ordained, representing diverse parishes, and the hundreds of OV\YZ�VM�KL]V[LK�ZLY]PJL�[OL`�OH]L�VɈLYLK�PU�WYVK\JPUN�[OPZ�ZSH[L� Please read this booklet prayerfully. The work and discernment of the search committee now moves to the entire diocese. Every member of every parish is encouraged to get to know the candidates in these pages, to attend the walkabouts, to pray for God’s will to be done and the Spirit’s moving among us. And then on May 16, 2015, clergy and lay delegates will have the awesome responsibility of electing the seventh Bishop of Dallas. My thanks abound to Fr. Bob Johnston and the Bishop Search Committee, as well as Tony Briggle and the Transition Committee for their ongoing work. .SVY`�[V�.VK�ÔVZL�WV^LY��^VYRPUN�PU�\Z��JHU�KV�PUÄUP[LS`�TVYL�[OHU�^L�can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20,21)

The Rev. David Stangebye Houk

President of the Standing Committee

A Letter from the Chairman of the Transition Committee

The Search Committee has worked long and hard to gather

this slate of four bishop candidates, among whom is the

one who will care for us, and under whose care we may grow. It

is now the job of the Transition Committee to work just as dili-

gently toward the election and consecration of the next bishop of

our diocese. The goal of the Transition Committee is to continue

to foster a discernment-oriented process. We strive to create an

environment of neutrality and common ground; to extend equal

OVZWP[HSP[`�[V�HSS�UVTPULLZ"�HUK�[V�VɈLY�]V[PUN�KLSLNH[LZ�HUK�HSS�members of the diocese equal opportunities to meet and hear the

nominees. The candidates, along with their spouses, will visit our

diocese for a walkabout from April 19 – 24, 2015. They will travel

around our diocese stopping at various locations to meet folks,

see our churches and ministries, and to present themselves to us

and answer our questions.

A walkabout is a time when the candidates visit to learn

more about the diocese and so the members of the diocese can

learn more about them. This time of getting to know one another

is part of the process of discerning whom God is calling to serve

as our next bishop.

Reservations for the walkabouts should be made to Can-

[email protected] or by calling 214-826-8310 Ext. 241.

At each location ANYONE, not only the lay convention delegates

and clergy who will vote at the election convention, can gather to

hear from the nominees as part of the discernment and calling of

a new bishop. There will be three break-out sessions at all four

locations. Each walkabout will have an informal time to meet and

greet the candidates. Please send potential questions for these

sessions to [email protected] or mail to The

Episcopal Diocese of Dallas, 1630 N. Garrett, Dallas, TX 75206.

We strongly encourage our voting delegates:

To attend at least one Walkabout session to see and hear

the nominees.

To listen carefully to the wishes and hopes of the congrega-

tion by whom they were selected; to engage in prayerful discern-

ment; and to be open to the movement of the Holy Spirit as they

discern who is being called to serve as bishop of our diocese.

We give special thanks to the members of the Search Com-

mittee. It is our privilege as members of the transition team to

carry on in the same spirit of inclusion. We ask that you continue

your prayers for clear discernment for the one who will come to

share our life in this diocese and lead us in the mission to which

God calls us.

“Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on

your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a

bishop for this Diocese, that we may receive a faithful pastor, who

will care for your people and equip us for our ministries; through

1LZ\Z�*OYPZ[�V\Y�3VYK��(TLU�¹

The Transition Committee for the Seventh Bishop

Tony Briggle, Chairman

[email protected]

214-505-7422

The schedule for the Walkabout is:

April 20 St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church5:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. 6400 Stonebrook Parkway Frisco, TX 75034 Dinner

April 22 St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 800 N. Johnson Mineola, TX 75773 Lunch 5:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. St. James on the Lake 10707 County Road 4022 Kemp, TX 75143 Potluck Dinner

April 23 Saint Michael & All Angels5:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. Episcopal Church 8011 Douglas Dallas, TX 75225 DinnerThe walkabout at SMAA will be broadcasted live at www.edod.org.

A convention is scheduled for May 16 to elect the next bishop.

>O`�KV�`V\�ILSPL]L�`V\�TH`�IL�JHSSLK�[V�[OL�VɉJL�VM�)PZOVW�MVY�[OL�,WPZJVWHS�+PVJLZL�VM�+HSSHZ�H[�[OPZ�[PTL&

M`�ZLUZL�VM�JHSSPUN�[V�[OL�VɉJL�VM�)PZOVW�PZ�YVV[LK�PU�T`�SV]L�MVY�*OYPZ[�HUK�[OL�JO\YJO��-VY�[OPZ�VɉJL�ZWLJPÄJHS-

ly, it branches out from my love for the clergy and laity of the

Diocese of Dallas. I will use my energy to care for our clergy,

to encourage our churches and institutions and to call the

Diocese to unity around a common mission of transformation.

While many churches have grown, our overall growth for the

SHZ[�[LU�`LHYZ�OHZ�ILLU�ÅH[��;OPZ�PZ�UV[�V\Y�M\[\YL��0�OH]L�[OL�energy, passion, and experience to call our Diocese to growth,

health, unity, and mission. Now is the time to turn our energy

V\[^HYK�[V�V\Y�TPZZPVU�ÄLSKZ��[V�WYH`�HUK�^VYR�[VNL[OLY�[V�accomplish God’s transforming work in the world. My calling

as Bishop is to preach, teach, and cast vision. It is a call to

serve, building healthy systems that will assist our mission of

transformation. My calling as Bishop is to help lead, encour-

age and equip the talented people in our Diocese for the

calling all of us have “to proclaim by word and example the

.VVK�5L^Z�VM�.VK�PU�*OYPZ[¹��)*7��

>OH[�PZ�`V\Y�OVWL�MVY�[OL�M\[\YL�VM�;OL�,WPZJVWHS�*O\YJO&�>OH[�PZ�[OL�IHZPZ�MVY�[OH[�OVWL&The future of The Episcopal Church must be looked at with

faith and not fear. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For surely I know

the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare

HUK�UV[�MVY�OHYT��[V�NP]L�`V\�H�M\[\YL�^P[O�OVWL�¹�;OL�IHZPZ�for this hope is Jesus’ unfailing desire to anoint the church for

His mission in the world. Through the eyes of fear, it is easy to

focus on decline, discord, and broken relationships. Through

faith, I see the Diocese of Dallas taking a positive and helpful

place in leading our church back to health and growth. I will

be a steady, contributing, and biblically orthodox presence in

the House of Bishops. I will encourage our clergy and laity to

THE REV. MIKE MICHIE

BIOGRAPHY

THE REV. MIKE MICHIE is the founding Rector of

St. Andrew’s, McKinney. He came to McKinney

to plant St. Andrew’s in 2005. Before that he was

Vicar of Christ the King in Houston, Texas and

Associate Rectors at St. Barnabas, Austin and

St. Richard’s, Round Rock. Father Mike holds a

BA in Government from the University of Texas, a

Masters in Public Administration from Texas State,

Master of Arts in Practical Theology from Oral

Roberts University Seminary and a CITS Degree

from The Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest

in Austin, Texas. In the Diocese of Dallas, Father

Mike has served on the Executive Council and

Standing Committee and was President in 2012.

He was a delegate to Provincial Synod in 2008. He

was a Deputy to General Convention in 2012 and

was elected as a Deputy for 2015. He is the Vice

Chair of the Congregational Vitality Committee, is

a member of the faculty for the Stanton Center, a

Dean at Camp All Saints, and serves Holy Family

School, the Church Planting Commission, the Epis-

copal Community Service Network, and the Dioce-

san Board of Examining Chaplains. Father Mike is

married to Laurie and they have three daughters,

Kellie (20), Jennifer (18) and Mariana (14).

ACADEMIC HISTORY

CITS, Seminary of the Southwest

M.A. Theology, Oral Roberts University

Masters in Public Administration,

Texas State University

B.A. Government, University of Texas

take positions of leadership at provincial and national levels,

something I have done in my own ministry. There is a bridge

to be built, with bricks made of trust, consistency, and a pas-

sion for mission. Let’s hold fast to our Diocesan identity and

SVVR�MVY�^H`Z�[OL�3VYK�^HU[Z�[V�\ZL�\Z�[V�M\SÄSS�/PZ�OVWL�ÄSSLK�future for The Episcopal Church.

…We must not shrink from the liturgical, political, economic, racial and linguistic diversity in our Diocese. This is not something to fear, but to be celebrated.

What excites you about these opportunities

HUK�JOHSSLUNLZ&First, I’m excited about what we can accomplish as a united

Diocesan family committed to mission. My priority as Bishop

^V\SK�IL�[V�WVZP[VU�[OL�+PVJLZL�UV[�Q\Z[�MVY�LɈLJ[P]L�TPUPZ[Y`�now, but also for the future Jesus has for us. Let’s work today

to become the Diocese we want the next generation to inherit.

We need to identify and ordain clergy that can equip us and

empower lay leaders who can lead a mission-minded Diocese

that encourages creativity and boldness. I’m excited about

what can happen when each church and institution looks

outward. Second, there is a need in the Diocese for collegi-

ality among clergy and churches. Having an excellent clergy

conference and an inspiring Diocesan convention is import-

ant, providing a time and place for genuine trust and relation-

ships to develop. Third, the value I place on trust strengthens

my commitment to be available as a pastor, intercessor and

supporter to our clergy. A good Bishop is a pastor to the cler-

gy, their spouses, and their children. There is much to do, but

my faith in Jesus reminds me that nothing is impossible with

.VK��3\RL��!��

What opportunities and challenges do you see for the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas?

;OL�7YH`LY�)VVR�VYKPUH[PVU�YP[L�JHSSZ�MVY�H�IPZOVW� ¸[V�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO�¹�>OH[�KVLZ�[OPZ�TLHU�[V�`V\&A Bishop must have the conviction, courage and wisdom

to guard. A well-guarded Diocese will grow in health and

mission. An unguarded Diocese is bound for decline, dis-

cord, and confusion. I’ve learned that it is better to deal with

potential problems as they arise – delaying confrontation

only leads to further damage. The faith is guarded when we

are under the authority of Scripture, not over it. The Creeds

and Catechism are boundaries we must stay within. Unity is

guarded not just by discipline, but by the Bishop being an

example of collegiality and respect, insisting on it always. The

Bishop provides an environment where we can “live in love as

*OYPZ[�SV]LK�\Z¹��,WOLZPHUZ��!��+PZJPWSPUL�PZ�N\HYKLK�I`�[OL�steady enforcement of the Canons, Constitution, the rubrics

of the Book of Common Prayer, the Creeds, and the faith as

we have received it. In that same ordination rite, the Bishop

promises to “encourage and support all baptized people in

[OLPY�NPM[Z�HUK�TPUPZ[YPLZ¹��)*7��;V�[OL�MHP[OM\S��H�)PZOVW�must be a servant and advocate. To those in need of disci-

pline, a Bishop must not fail in administering the responsibili-

[PLZ�VM�[OL�VɉJL�

0U�ÔH[�ZWLJPÄJ�^H`Z�^V\SK�`V\�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO&“For a bishop, as God’s steward, must be blameless; he must

not be arrogant or quick-tempered or addicted to wine or vi-

olent or greedy for gain; but he must be hospitable, a lover of

NVVKULZZ��WY\KLU[��\WYPNO[��KL]V\[��HUK�ZLSM�JVU[YVSSLK¹��;P-[\Z��!��;OPZ�PZ�H�N\PKL��UV[�Q\Z[�MVY�JVUK\J[��I\[�MVY�OV^�0»K�seek to guard faith, unity, and discipline. I will inspire people

for mission by faithful teaching, serving the poor, and enthusi-

astically supporting the work of our churches and institutions.

Equitable systems, in accordance with our Canons, will be in

place to handle violations. We have inherited a faithful, mis-

sional Diocese thanks to the Bishops who have gone before

us. The best way to guard this heritage is to be faithful to the

mission God has given us. I’ll teach and preach in practical

ways, showing people that God is for them and not against

them. I will encourage the bright young theologians God has

The greatest opportunities and the most important

challenges to our Diocese are to be found in the hearts

DQG�PLQGV�RI�WKH�OHDGHUV�LQ�RXU�PLVVLRQ�ðHOGV��:KLOH�,�have my own ideas, the task of a Bishop is to spend

time listening to the people doing the ministry on the

ground. What is the missional opportunity that is unique

WR�\RXU�FKXUFK"�+RZ�FDQ�WKH�'LRFHVH�KHOS�\RX�IXOðOO�WKLV�mission? What factors are keeping you from being more

HσHFWLYH"�+RZ�FDQ�WKH�'LRFHVH�KHOS�\RX�PHHW�WKHVH�challenges? Our next Bishop inherits a faithful, imagina-

tive and committed Diocese with great leaders. Wonder-

ful ministry is happening through Camp All Saints, the

rural church ministry, the Missional Church commission,

Hispanic and ethnic ministries, Cursillo and many others.

The demographics of our Diocese are working for us –

we are growing with young families, many of whom are

looking for sacramental churches. Challenge and oppor-

tunity come together productively when we unite around

a common mission of transformation of this mission

ðHOG��0\�YLVLRQ�LV�WR�KDYH�HYHU\�'LRFHVDQ�VWUXFWXUH�DQG�committee serving this common mission. Jesus is calling

us onward. We can do all things through Christ who

strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).


sent our Diocese. I’ll lift up Dallas as a positive, missional

example to The Episcopal Church. I’ll guard defensively when

ULLKLK��I\[�[OL�ILZ[�KLMLUZL�PZ�H�NVVK�VɈLUZL!�WYH`PUN�MVY��building up, and advancing the Kingdom of God.

6\Y�KPVJLZL�PZ�SHYNL�HUK�KP]LYZL�PU�THU`�^H`Z��/V^�^V\SK�`V\�HWWYVHJO�ILPUN�H�WHZ[VY�[V�HSS�TLTILYZ�VM�[OPZ�IVK`&>L�OH]L�H�]HZ[�HUK�^VUKLYM\S�TPZZPVU�ÄLSK!�[OL�I\Z[SPUN�energy of the young people, established wealth and massive

need downtown, the revitalization happening in south Dallas,

[OL�PUJYLKPISL�Z\I\YIHU�TPZZPVU�ÄLSKZ�VM�*VSSPU�*V\U[`�HUK�[OL�ÄLSKZ�YPWL�MVY�OHY]LZ[�PU�V\Y�Y\YHS�HYLHZ��6\Y�JO\YJOLZ�HYL�large and small, old and new, thriving and struggling. We have

schools and institutions doing phenomenal work that need

to be included in the Diocesan life and leadership. First, our

lay and clergy leaders need to be listened to. What are their

needs and concerns? How can the Diocese help? Second,

[OLYL�JHUUV[�IL�HU`�ÄYZ[��HUK�ZLJVUK�JSHZZ�JP[PaLUZ�VM�[OL�Diocese. Every church will be visited in due time and I will visit

every service. Third, we must not shrink from the liturgical, po-

litical, economic, racial, and linguistic diversity in our Diocese.

This is not something to fear, but to be celebrated. There

is unity to be found in our love for Jesus and our common

mission. “For just as the body is one and has many members,

and all the members of the body, though many, are one body,

ZV�P[�PZ�^P[O�*OYPZ[¹��*VYPU[OPHUZ��!��

;OL�9L]��4PRL�4PJOPL�HUK�OPZ�MHTPS`

:K\�GR�\RX�EHOLHYH�\RX�PD\�EH�FDOOHG�WR�WKH�RτFH�RI�

Bishop for the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas at this time?

The process of electing a bishop is one of seeking and

discerning the will of God for the Diocese of Dallas, for

TL��HUK�MVY�T`�MHTPS �̀�-YVT�[OL�ÄYZ[�PUX\PYPLZ�HIV\[�WVZZPIS`�being in this search process, through the stages of the Search

Committee’s work, until this moment, I have been in prayer:

seeking, asking, and knocking.

God often speaks to us through people we know, so I

tested this possible call through prayerful conversations with

my spiritual director, active and retired bishops, close friends

who know me well, and my wife Jacqui. Individually, each

one has given me insight, encouragement, and their prayers.

Collectively, they have encouraged me to trust the Holy Spirit,

be open to God’s call, and be faithful to this process. The only

way to faithfully test where the Holy Spirit is moving is to allow

my name to continue in the process and see how the Spirit

acts on May 16.

I believe it is God who makes a person a bishop, and

once elected and consecrated, the Holy Spirit will give the

next Bishop of Dallas the spiritual gifts and skills he needs to

do the ministry Christ calls him to do.

What is your hope for the future of The Episcopal

Church? What is the basis for that hope?I have great hope for the future of the Episcopal Church.

While I am sometimes frustrated by the direction taken by

the General Convention, I remain optimistically hopeful for

the future. I believe the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of

Dallas are uniquely positioned to engage the next generation

with the Good News of Jesus Christ. We are blessed to be

stewards of an approach to the Christian Faith delivered to us

by our ancestors. We are both Catholic and Reformed. We are

comfortable living in tension. We approach the challenges of

THE REV. DAVID G. READ

BIOGRAPHYChristian living with honesty and grace. We are blessed by the

incredible theology of the Prayer Book, and with the sacred

mystery of sacraments. There is a growing movement to cre-

atively engage our communities. These tools, and the power

of Almighty God, give me great hope for our future.

Dallas has a unique place and voice in the Episco-

pal Church. I believe Dallas is a great resource to the larger

Church. From church planting, to establishing a camp, to

ministry with minority populations, to a discernment process

ÔPJO�WYVK\JLZ�TPZZPVUHS�SLHKLYZ��+HSSHZ�OHZ�T\JO�[V�VɈLY�[OL�Episcopal Church. This too, gives me great hope for the future.

Part of guarding the unity of the Church includes assuring the Diocese that faithful people can disagree, and all people have a seat at the table in Diocesan life and ministry.


and challenges?Together, the Diocese of Dallas is poised to write a new chapter

in life and ministry. The opportunities for the Diocese outweigh

the challenges. The Diocese has incredible resources: gifted

people, faithful clergy leadership, past experience, a commit-

TLU[�[V�[OL�.YLH[�*VTTPZZPVU��ÄUHUJPHS�YLZV\YJLZ��*H[OVSPJ�faith, and the power of God. When these are applied to the

opportunities and challenges of the day, the Diocese will be an

even greater witness that the Kingdom of God has come near.

I imagine the next decades in the life of the Diocese of

Dallas as a time of building the future on a foundation of faith.

The possibilities for renewed and expanded, life-transforming

ministry, are very exciting. It will be a challenge not to allow

fear to limit the possibilities. It will take collaborative work to

get all the resources moving in generally the same direction,

but I am an optimistic person and I dream big.

I am excited about opportunities to collaborate in

THE REV. DAVID GLENN READ is the Rector of St.

Luke’s Episcopal Church & School in San Antonio,

Texas. Father Read was raised in San Antonio, and

earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from Texas

State University (1988), and a Master in Divini-

ty from Virginia Theological Seminary (1992). He

was ordained deacon and priest in 1992. During

his ordained ministry, Father Read has served as

Rector of four congregations: St. Paul’s, Brady

(1992-5); St. Francis’, Victoria (1995-1998), St. Hele-

na’s, Boerne (1998 -2009) and St. Luke’s Church

& School, San Antonio, (2009 – present). In the

Diocese of West Texas, Read served as Chairman

of the Dept. of Camps & Conferences for over a

decade, and as a Trustee of The Episcopal Church

Corp. He currently serves on the Standing Commit-

tee, Diocesan Development Committee, Bishop’s

Council of Advice, and is the Diocesan Secretary.

5HDG�LV�D�ðYH�WLPH�'HSXW\�WR�*HQHUDO�&RQYHQWLRQ�where he has served on the legislative committees

for Ministry, Dispatch of Business, and Governance

& Structure (2015). He is active in world mission,

and has led mission teams to Mexico, Uganda, and

Haiti. Fr. Read and his wife Jacqui were married in

1991. They have two children: Amy Grace (20), and

William Aidan (17).

ACADEMIC HISTORY

M.Div., Virginia Theological Seminary

B.A., History, Texas State University


mission and outreach. I am excited about the future of Camp

All Saints. I am excited about exploring ways small and large

congregations can work together to share experiences, best

practices, and creative solutions to ministry challenges.

;OL�7YH`LY�)VVR�VYKPUH[PVU�YP[L�JHSSZ�MVY�H�IPZOVW� ¸[V�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO�¹�>OH[�KVLZ�[OPZ�TLHU�[V�`V\&The Church in our generation has received the Christian Faith

from Christ, through the saints who have gone before us. This

Faith we have received includes the unique revelation of God

as Trinity. It includes the redemption of the world through Je-

sus’ Incarnation, Life, Passion, Death, Resurrection, and As-

cension. This Faith has been passed down in Holy Scripture,

the Creeds, the liturgies of the Book of Common Prayer, and

in the lives of saints. It is a living, breathing, dynamic, Faith.

A bishop is called to guard the faith of the Church from

attempts to reduce God’s amazing grace, or lessen God’s

all-encompassing claim on our lives. Sometimes guard-

ing faith, unity, and discipline involves responding to false

teaching or false doctrine. More frequently, the bishop guards

the faith of the Church by uniting the people of the diocese

to vigorously and creatively proclaim the power of Christ’s

resurrection in such a contagious way that people encounter

the Risen Christ and have their lives transformed.

St. Augustine is credited with this quote, “in essentials

\UP[ �̀�PU�UVU�LZZLU[PHSZ�SPILY[ �̀�PU�HSS�[OPUNZ�JOHYP[ �̀¹�;OL�)PZO-

op focuses on the essentials of the Faith, and not on uniformi-

ty, but on unity in mission.

0U�ÔH[�ZWLJPÄJ�^H`Z�^V\SK�`V\�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO&Inside the Diocese of Dallas, the Bishop will guard the faith,

unity, and discipline of the Church through teaching the Word,

preaching the Gospel, celebrating the sacraments, and by be-

ing a living example of Christian discipleship. Working with the

Diocesan Convention, Standing Committee, Executive Board,

clergy, and lay leaders, the Bishop leads the Diocese to

develop resources and implement practices which encourage

JVUNYLNH[PVUZ�[V�ÅV\YPZO�PU�[OLPY�TPUPZ[Y �̀�HUK�ÔPJO�N\HYK�the unity and discipline of the Church. The Bishop, along with

I see many opportunities to build on work in which the

Lord and the Diocese are already engaged. The popu-

lation of the Diocese is growing rapidly, and there are

many opportunities to plant new congregations and

reach unchurched people with the Gospel. The Diocese

has a growing ministry with Hispanic populations. There

is great opportunity to further this work as that popula-

tion also grows. The development of Camp All Saints,

and the expansion of its programs, is an opportunity to

strengthen families, raise up children in the faith, expand

youth ministries, and unite the Diocese in ministry. I see

many opportunities for collaboration between clergy,

laity, and congregations, in common ministries such as

world mission, local outreach, and youth ministry.

7KH�'LRFHVH�ZRXOG�EHQHðW�IURP�D�FRPSHOOLQJ�YLVLRQ�RI�God’s call which would unite this diverse Diocese in mis-

sion and ministry. I hear a need for deeper relationships

and camaraderie among the clergy. This would strength-

en the whole Diocese. Some small, very faithful, con-

gregations feel distant from Dallas, and need resources

and creative ideas to continue being a healthy Episcopal

presence in their communities. Decisions made at the

upcoming 2015 General Convention will be challenging

for some clergy and congregations.

;OL�9L]��+H]PK�.��9LHK�HUK�OPZ�MHTPS`

the Commission on Ministry, Standing Committee, and other

leaders, also guides the formation and preparation of those

on the path to ordination, insuring they receive the very best

education and training for their sacred vocation.

Outside the Diocese, the Bishop takes his place in the

House of Bishops and General Convention, where he takes

initiatives to guard faith, unity, and discipline. The Bishop also

takes his place in the Anglican Communion and cultivates

faithful relationships with other bishops and the Archbishop of

*HU[LYI\Y �̀�;OL�)PZOVW�ULLKZ�[OL�Z[YLUN[O�[V�ZH`�¸UV�¹�L]LU�ÔLU�P[�PZ�\UWVW\SHY��HUK�[OL�JV\YHNL�[V�ZH`�¸`LZ�¹�ÔLU�[OL�Spirit is leading the Church to step forward in new ways.

6\Y�KPVJLZL�PZ�SHYNL�HUK�KP]LYZL�PU�THU`�^H`Z��/V^�^V\SK�`V\�HWWYVHJO�ILPUN�H�WHZ[VY�[V�HSS�TLTILYZ�VM�[OPZ�IVK`&I have been blessed to serve in a geographically large, theo-

logically diverse, and incredibly healthy diocese. I have ob-

served that a bishop is able to carry out his ministry only as he

develops deep personal relationships with the clergy and peo-

ple of the diocese. The most important work of the diocese

OHWWLUZ�PU�JVUNYLNH[PVUZ��;OL�UL_[�)PZOVW�VM�+HSSHZ�^PSS�ÄUK�his cathedra –the Bishop’s Chair – is frequently the driver’s

seat of his automobile. Being a pastor will mean intentionally

developing personal relationships with clergy, lay leaders, and

congregations. To build those relationships, the Bishop will

need to practice a ministry of presence. From celebrating the

sacraments in congregations, to visiting with clergy families,

[V�ZOHYPUN�H�J\W�VM�JVɈLL�^P[O�SH`�SLHKLYZ��[V�IYLHRPUN�IYLHK�with small groups, and even through regular and encouraging

phone calls, pastoral relationships of trust are built over time.

The Bishop is the Chief Pastor to all people in the Dio-

JLZL�¶�L]LU�[V�[OVZL�ÔV�OVSK�KPɈLYLU[�[OLVSVNPJHS�WVZP[PVUZ�or personal opinions. Part of guarding the unity of the Church

includes assuring the Diocese that faithful people can dis-

agree, and all people have a seat at the table in Diocesan life

and ministry.


Throughout our commitment to embrace life as fami-

ly around ordained ministry, my wife, Susalee, and I

OH]L�ZV\NO[�VILKPLUJL�[V�NV�ÔLYL]LY�P[�WVZZPISL�[V�VɈLY�the most impactful contribution to the Kingdom. I have been

[YLTLUKV\ZS`�M\SÄSSLK�[OL�SHZ[�[LU�`LHYZ�V]LYZLLPUN�H�OLHS[O �̀�growing, and entrepreneurial congregation and harboring no

desires for new ministry opportunities. However, the unex-

pected invitation into your bishop search process stirred a

sense of holy intrigue in a way no other diocese might. Much

prayerful discernment has led me to believe I may represent a

]LY`�NVVK�¸0UJHYUH[PVUHS�Ä[¹�HZ�`V\Y�IPZOVW��0�OH]L�H�KLTVU-

strated record of commitment to fellowship, discipleship, and

mission, passions that I believe conform to the history and

aspirations of the diocese. I am well-experienced in congre-

gational leadership and overseeing complex organizations.

In the prime of life, possessing good health with consider-

able energy, I thrive on social interaction and shared ministry

with others. I articulate creedal Christianity and believe my

leadership style embodies steadfastness and graciousness

PU�YLSH[PUN�[V�KP]LYZP[`�HUK�KPɈLYLUJL��;OL�UL_[��`LHYZ�represent a critical season for the Diocese of Dallas, one ripe

with opportunity. You want a bishop who is excited about

that. I am.

>OH[�PZ�`V\Y�OVWL�MVY�[OL�M\[\YL�VM�;OL�,WPZJVWHS�*O\YJO&�>OH[�PZ�[OL�IHZPZ�MVY�[OH[�OVWL&The Episcopal Church has been very good to me, the spiritual

home wherein I continue to grow as a disciple of Christ, have

made my dearest Christian friends, and passed through major

life transitions. It also matters deeply to me that I belong to a

communion larger than my personal and parochial interests

and that stretches around the globe today and back through

THE REV. R. LEIGH SPRUILL

BIOGRAPHY

THE REV. R. LEIGH SPRUILL has served as Rector

of St. George’s Church in Nashville, Tennessee,

since early 2005. Prior to his current ministry, Fr.

Spruill served as Rector of St. Mark’s Church in

Jacksonville, Florida; as Associate Rector at St.

Luke’s Church in Birmingham, Alabama; and as

Assistant Rector at St. James’s Church in Rich-

mond, Virginia. A native of Tappahannock, Virgin-

ia, Fr. Spruill graduated from the Episcopal High

School in Alexandria, VA, and received his B.A.

from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

where he was a Coker-Fox Scholar, a full four-year

academic and leadership scholarship. After col-

lege and following several years in the commercial

real estate industry in Richmond, he attended the

School of Theology at the University of the South

in Sewanee, Tennessee, graduating with honors.

He was ordained in the Diocese of Virginia in 1996.

In the Diocese of Tennessee, Fr. Spruill has been

a member of the Standing Committee, serving as

President in 2009. Among his current activities,

he serves as a member of the Board of Regents

of Sewanee: the University of the South and as a

board member for Siloam Family Health Clinic in

Nashville. Fr. Spruill is also enrolled in a Doctor of

0LQLVWU\�GHJUHH�SURJUDP�WKURXJK�:\FOLσH�&ROOHJH�at the University of Toronto, Canada. Fr. Spruill has

been married to Susalee for 25 years, and they

have three children: Eleanor (23), Peter (19), and

William (13).

ACADEMIC HISTORY

M.Div., School of Theology, Sewanee

B.A., Economics, UNC-Chapel Hill

time to the apostles. My hope is that future leaders of the

Episcopal Church will work hard to ensure belonging within

the Anglican Communion as a vital, continuous expression

of the church catholic and apostolic in the US. So I hope for

more learned and patient discernment in the councils of the

church over decisions that may threaten unity and for greater

honor and forbearance extended to all with whom we may

disagree. I long for a more evangelically-minded church. There

are many today seeking God who are drawn to the sacra-

mental life and historical rootedness of the Episcopal Church.

But they are looking for vibrant community. Thus I am hopeful

ÔLYL]LY�0�ZLL�[OYP]PUN�JVUNYLNH[PVUZ�HUK�LɈLJ[P]L��MHP[OM\S�leaders. The Episcopal Church has many. Ultimately my hope

is in Christ in whom all things are possible.

Courage will be required to iden-tify ministries were there may be diminishing returns on the expen-diture of energy and resources.


HUK�JOHSSLUNLZ&There is a dialectical relationship in the church between mis-

sionary vision and internal vitality. I am excited, therefore, by

your recent history of successful church plants in the dio-

cese. These initiatives communicate a strong self-awareness

of the church’s primary reason for being: to be a light to the

^VYSK��4H[[��0�NL[�L_JP[LK�^VYRPUN�^P[O�V[OLY�Z[YVUN�leaders, and I have been very impressed with the members

of your diocese I have gotten to know so far. I am energized

contemplating shared ministry with those who are themselves

excited about a fresh vision for reaching a robust, growing re-

gion of the country with the gospel. I am eager to engage and

learn more about other cultural expressions of the faith in the

diocese. The prospect of visits outside the Dallas area is ener-

gizing to me. I am especially excited about the role of bishop

as chief pastor and teacher, particularly given my passion for


Writing to the parish I serve announcing my participation

in your episcopal election, I shared: “the diocese there

is a strong, growing, and resourceful one with many

excellent clergy, lay leaders, and vibrant congregations,

and has a reputation for missionary consciousness.”

I know too that you have enjoyed faithful episcopal

leadership. How then to move from strength to strength?

The exciting challenge for your new bishop will be to

shepherd and articulate a fresh collective vision wherein

no congregation or ministry becomes isolated from the

diocese’s life and priorities regardless of social context,

geographic location, or ethnic heritage. Given project-

ed increases in general population growth, the dio-

cese must be proactive planning for new missions and

church plants. This may require innovative approaches

to ministry with special attention directed to raising up

local leadership from among various population groups.

Courage will be required to identify ministries where

there may be diminishing returns on the expenditure

of energy and resources. I believe I can be successful

attracting the top clergy talent in the wider church to the

diocese. The opportunity also clearly exists for deepen-

ing relationships among clergy and developing a greater

sense of connectedness with congregations outside the

Dallas “metroplex” area.

healthy social life and discipleship, helping others learn to

identify, mentor, and equip new Christian leaders. If elected,

I will invite constant consideration of how the diocese retains

its distinctive character and commitments while becoming

more of a light within the Episcopal Church and beyond.

;OL�7YH`LY�)VVR�VYKPUH[PVU�YP[L�JHSSZ�MVY�H�IPZOVW� ¸[V�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO�¹�>OH[�KVLZ�[OPZ�TLHU�[V�`V\&At the heart of Anglicanism is an historic and incarnational

revelation that God’s nature is communicated through em-

bodied forms, the calling of a particular people living and

praying together in such a uniquely loving way that the world

is compelled to seek an explanation for the hope that is within

\Z��7L[LY��/V^L]LY��[OL�VYKLY�VM�[OL�JO\YJO�PZ�UL]LY�simply a utilitarian concern. Our faith, unity, and discipline are

ordered precisely to embody the cruciform life of Jesus Christ

ÔV�THRLZ�[OL�JO\YJO�WVZZPISL�PU�[OL�ÄYZ[�WSHJL��;OL�OPZ[VYPJ�episcopate relates to the gospel by ensuring that the pattern

VM�SPML�PU�[OL�JO\YJO�MVY�H�WHY[PJ\SHY�HYLH��H�KPVJLZL��PZ�PU�JVU-

tinuity with the faith we have inherited from the apostles. The

IPZOVW»Z�VɉJL�HSZV�YLWYLZLU[Z�[V�[OL�SVJHS�JO\YJO�OLY�\UP[`�with the larger body of the faithful such that our Lord’s prayer

¸[OH[�[OL`�HSS�TH`�IL�VUL¹��1VOU��^PSS�ÄUK�SP]LK�L_WYLZ-

sion. Thus, a bishop’s guardianship both protects and points,

ensuring communion with the church universal through the

preservation of our biblical faith, historic confessions, and

sacramental life while shepherding the church into loving en-

gagement with today’s world as Christ’s ambassadors.

0U�ÔH[�ZWLJPÄJ�^H`Z�^V\SK�`V\�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO&A good bishop will seek to ensure that the church possesses

clarity of identity and has the means to live into it. I list six spe-

JPÄJ�YLHSTZ�PU�ÔPJO�0�^V\SK�M\SÄSS�[OPZ�OVS`�N\HYKPHUZOPW!�ZHJYH-

ments, leadership, teacher, pastor, ambassador, and personal

example. The bishop ensures provision “for the administration

VM�[OL�ZHJYHTLU[Z¹��)*7��W��HUK�HSZV�[OL�MHP[OM\S�WYLZLU[H-

tion of the gospel in the diocese. I would take a proactive and

energetic role identifying those called to ordained leadership,

in promoting representative leadership in the structures of the

diocese, and in supporting and challenging churches in their

discipleship ministries. I love teaching, especially the Bible,

and would seek opportunities to exercise this ministry widely

as well as in leading biblical pilgrimages, a particular passion.

I would be humbled to come alongside local lay and ordained

leaders as pastor to shepherd congregations and ministries

toward greater health. I would want to be a participatory,

loyal, and winsome ambassador for the apostolic faith and the

people of the diocese in the councils of the church. And to be

H�ÔVSLZVTL�L_HTWSL�[V�[OL�ÅVJR��0�HT�ÄLYJLS`�JVTTP[[LK�to self-care, rhythms of disciplined prayer and study, healthy

living, family devotion, and continual repentance.

6\Y�KPVJLZL�PZ�SHYNL�HUK�KP]LYZL�PU�THU`�^H`Z��/V^�^V\SK�`V\�HWWYVHJO�ILPUN�H�WHZ[VY�[V�HSS�TLTILYZ�VM�[OPZ�IVK`&;OL�HUZ^LY�[V�[OPZ�X\LZ[PVU�ILNPUZ�^P[O�HU�HɉYTH[PVU!�because of the Incarnation, we trust the gospel is inevitably

contextual and culturally embodied in diverse ways from lo-

cale to locale. Such diversity is good to the extent it builds up

[OL�ÔVSL�JO\YJO�NLULYH[PUN�NYLH[LY�PU[LYKLWLUKLUJ`��*VY��;OL�VWWVY[\UP[`�MVY�LUNHNPUN�OLHS[O`�KP]LYZP[`�PZ�[V�ÄUK�ZVTL�L_WYLZZPVU�VM�[OL�NVZWLS�PU�H�KPɈLYLU[�JVU[L_[�[OH[�LUSPNO[LUZ�VY�LKPÄLZ�MHP[OM\S�SP]PUN�PU�V\Y�VÛ�ZP[\H[PVU��;OH[�[OL�NVZWLS�PZ�JVU[L_[\HSPaLK�PU�KPɈLYPUN�SHUN\HNLZ��J\S[\YHS�identities, social settings, and geographic locations frees us

from narrow parochialism. I have been shaped by both urban

and rural settings in ministry. I have served in large urban and

suburban contexts in ordained ministry but also grew up in

a small town of 2500 people belonging to a pastoral-sized

congregation where my mother was organist and my father a

SH`�SLHKLY��0�WVZZLZZ�Z[YVUN�WLYZVUHS�HɉUP[`�MVY�JVUNYLNH[PVUZ�and parish leaders in similar contexts. I would expect the

Z[Y\J[\YLZ�VM�[OL�KPVJLZL�[V�YLÅLJ[�[OL�YHUNL�VM�[OL�KPVJLZL��Again, I have energy to travel and know as many people as

possible, having much to learn from fellow Christians whose

JVU[L_[Z�HYL�KPɈLYLU[�MYVT�T`�VÛ��

;OL�9L]��9��3LPNO�:WY\PSS�HUK�OPZ�MHTPS`


A leader can only lead what he admires. I could be the

IPZOVW�VM�+HSSHZ��ÄYZ[��ILJH\ZL�V]LY�[OL�`LHYZ�0�OH]L�appreciated who you are. I have known clergy, visited to

preach, and received students from the Diocese. You have a

well-known commitment to the saving gospel of Jesus Christ.

You have our Church’s most vigorous program of planting

churches and raising up lay evangelists. A strong group

of clergy has a sense of esprit de corps. Finally, you have

expressed a desire to keep that conservative theological com-

mitment, remain part of the Church, and accomplish these in

a gracious way. On these we are aligned.

Your next bishop will require a wide-ranging skill set,

which I think I have. I have been a parish priest and appreci-

ate the demands of the job. I am an administrator developing

team unity, strategy, relations with bishops, and resources. I

have been a missionary in other cultures, taught mission, built

connections throughout the global communion, and led an

Institute of Evangelism. I have a record as a theologian on the

larger Church scene. I have served urban and rural, evangeli-

cal and catholic, parishes.

� ;OPYK�HUK�ÄUHSS �̀�HM[LY�WYH`LY��0�ILSPL]L�0�HT�JHSSLK�[V�IL�open to this possibility, though the task of discerning where

the Holy Spirit is leading the diocese lies with you.

>OH[�PZ�`V\Y�OVWL�MVY�[OL�M\[\YL�VM�;OL�,WPZJVWHS�*O\YJO&�>OH[�PZ�[OL�IHZPZ�MVY�[OH[�OVWL&Charles Dickens said that, for Paris in the midst of the French

Revolution, it was ‘the best of times and the worst of times.’

So it is for the Episcopal Church. On the one hand, this is our

*O\YJO»Z�TVTLU[��6\Y�MHP[O�PZ�JLU[LYLK�VU�[OL�JY\JPÄLK�HUK�YPZLU�1LZ\Z�*OYPZ[��0[�VɈLYZ�[OL�YPJOLZ�VM�7YH`LY�)VVR�^VYZOPW��It is part of a global family of Churches. Young people from

THE REV. CANON GEORGE R. SUMNER

BIOGRAPHY

THE REV. CANON GEORGE SUMNER is presently

WKH�3ULQFLSDO�RI�:\FOLσH�&ROOHJH�LQ�7RURQWR��&DQ-

ada. As the dean of a growing seminary, he is the

chief administrator responsible for strategic plan-

ning, encouraging young future priests, steward-

ship, building relations with bishops, overseeing

clergy continuing education and an Institute of

Evangelism, and teaching courses in the mission

of the Church. Ordained as an Episcopal priest

in western Massachusetts in 1981, Sumner has

served in a variety of capacities: youth minister,

missionary teacher in east Africa, curate in an

inner–city Anglo-Catholic parish, vicar on a native

American reservation in New Mexico and Arizona,

and rector in a small town. Sumner has a Ph.D.

in theology from Yale, and has written a book

about priestly calling and a commentary on Dan-

iel. Sumner served on the conservative side of the

Episcopal Church’s committee on the theology of

marriage (2008-10). Assorted writings and ser-

mons can be found on Tumblr at georgesumner.ca.

George is 59 years old. He and Stephanie, a psy-

cho-therapist, have a son, 18, and a daughter, 26.

George plays squash and follows Boston sports.

ACADEMIC HISTORY

Ph.D., in Theology, Yale University

M.Div. Yale Divinity School

B.A. Harvard College

other denominations are drawn to a Church so ‘deep and

wide.’ At the same time, our Church can be easily ‘blown by

L]LY`�^PUK�VM�KVJ[YPUL»��,WOLZPHUZ��!��MV\UK�PU�[OL�SH[LZ[�cultural trend, and it sometimes loses its nerve for proclaiming

the gospel. In a worldly sense our prospects do not suggest a

single, easy answer.

What, then, is the basis of my hope? The God of Jesus

*OYPZ[�ÔV�JHU�IYLH[OL�SPML�PU[V�H�]HSSL`�VM�KY`�IVULZ��VM�JV\YZL��But what form does this take? In the Bible, renewal is like the

leaven for the whole loaf. I am convinced that Dallas is called to

be leaven for the larger Church as it articulates the ‘faith once

received’ and lives out its mission at the parish level.

…the bishop will need to be a KPWSVTH[�ÄUKPUN�MYPLUKZ�ÔLYL�he can, and an advocate of a truly ‘comprehensive,’ i.e. ‘big tent’ Episcopal Church which has room for traditional belief and practice.


HUK�JOHSSLUNLZ& As to the question of excitement, a sense of the Gospel

and common cause, a moment of great promise, which is also

hard and complex: that is what God has put us here for!

;OL�7YH`LY�)VVR�VYKPUH[PVU�YP[L�JHSSZ�MVY�H�IPZOVW� ¸[V�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO�¹�>OH[�KVLZ�[OPZ�TLHU�[V�`V\&Doctors have to swear to ‘do no harm.’ The promise to ‘guard

the faith, unity, and discipline’ of the Church is similar. At the

most basic level, the bishop has to make sure that all our hope

PZ�PU�[OL�JY\JPÄLK�HUK�YPZLU�1LZ\Z�*OYPZ[��[OL�º^H �̀�[OL�[Y\[O��and the life,’ the Son of God. He has to make sure that the

worship and ministry of the Church convey, and don’t obscure,

His gracious power. Dallas is blessed to have parishes that

accomplish this one shared purpose in both evangelical and

catholic expressions of worship, in keeping with our tradition.

This guarding is on behalf of the people of the diocese,

but not them alone. The bishop sees that the faith is ‘handed

on’. That is what the word `tradition’ means. The faith of the

Church is not something we made up yesterday. We are called

to make sure that the faith handed on to our own children

and grandchildren, as well as to our unbelieving neighbors, is

[OL�ZHTL�MHP[O�ÄYZ[�OHUKLK�VU�I`�[OL�HWVZ[SLZ��[OL�ZHTL�MHP[O�which Dallas shares with fellow Christians throughout the world.

0U�ÔH[�ZWLJPÄJ�^H`Z�^V\SK�`V\�N\HYK�[OL�MHP[O��\UP[ �̀�HUK�KPZJPWSPUL�VM�[OL�*O\YJO&The catechism reminds us, with respect to the faith, that the

Holy Scriptures are the prime place where ‘God still speaks to

us’, while the creeds we say on Sunday help us to understand

those Scriptures in the right way. Next, we as Episcopalians

trust the Book of Common Prayer as the place where our

ILSPLMZ�HYL�LTILKKLK��:V�[OL�IPZOVW�PZ�ÄYZ[�VM�HSS�H�[LHJOLY!�he explains Scripture and the creeds so that all Christians can

ºN\HYK�[OLPY�VÛ�OLHY[Z�PU�*OYPZ[�1LZ\Z»��7OPSPWWPHUZ��!��/L�also “guards’ when he helps clergy to make the case for the

gospel in creative ways appropriate to our time and place.

Finally the bishop is answerable to the Constitution of the

Episcopal Church, as well as the national and diocesan can-

ons. These exist for the sake of discipline, the orderly life of

the Church, whose real purpose is that we as gospel people

TPNO[�ºOH]L�SPML�HUK�OH]L�P[�HI\UKHU[S �̀»��1VOU��!��6JJH-

sionally correcting, the bishop makes sure discipline serves

this, its proper role.

‘Guarding’, however, doesn’t mean clamping down on all

questions, doubts, and disagreements. The Anglican tradition

has made a place for these, so long as the life-giving basics,

and the norm of our common prayer, are maintained. The bish-

VW»Z�ºN\HYKPUN»�OLSWZ�[OL�KPVJLZL�ZLL�[OL�KPɈLYLUJL��ÔPJO�has everything to do with maintaining the unity of the Body.

Let us start on the òpportunity’ side of the ledger. My

Quaker ancestors liked to say `proceed as way opens,’

and the Holy Spirit is opening a way for mission in Dallas

in the coming years. The rich combination of evangelical

faith and catholic worship enhances new opportunities

for mission. We can deploy our expertise in Church plant-

ing in strategically selected places. We need to continue

to evangelize young people moving back into the city, as

well as new immigrant groups. We need to make a com-

mitment to Hispanic ministry. Greater Dallas is a growing

global city, and that means God is opening a door for us.

We also need to make sure that the `Canterbury

road’ of young people from places like Dallas Seminary

toward the Episcopal Church continues; I am encour-

aged by similarly enthusiastic students in my present

work. Successful rural ministries can be models for their

neighbors. We also have a mission to the wider Church.

We can have the Church’s best program of education

to empower ministry at all levels: clergy conferences,

lay readers and evangelists, discernment conferences

IRU�\RXQJ�DGXOWV��UHVRXUFHV�IRU�D�JUHDW�FRQðUPDWLRQ�program, and young clergy defending the faith through

writing and media skills.

The issue of same-sex marriage will present a signif-

icant challenge in the coming decade for the bishop, who

will continue to be in the minority in TEC. The diocese

needs a stalwart advocate and patient teacher of the

traditional practice. At the same time the bishop will need

WR�EH�D�GLSORPDW�ðQGLQJ�IULHQGV�ZKHUH�KH�FDQ��DQG�DQ�DG-

vocate of a truly ‘comprehensive’, i.e.‘big tent,’ Episcopal

Church which has room for traditional belief and practice.


;OL�9L]��*HUVU�.LVYNL�9��:\TULY�HUK�OPZ�MHTPS`

6\Y�KPVJLZL�PZ�SHYNL�HUK�KP]LYZL�PU�THU`�^H`Z��/V^�^V\SK�`V\�HWWYVHJO�ILPUN�H�WHZ[VY�[V�HSS�TLTILYZ�VM�[OPZ�IVK`&This question is best answered by remembering who we are

and what we are here for. The task of the bishop is to be a

shepherd for those who gather in the name of Jesus to pray,

receive the sacraments, listen to God’s Word, serve, etc. In I

Corinthians 1:12 Paul reminds his fellow Christians that they

do not belong to this or that leader or issue or faction, but to

Jesus Christ. There is a diversity of gifts, but one ministry, a

diversity of ethnic backgrounds, but one Spirit, a diversity of

viewpoints, but common prayer.

At a practical level, I would be committed to visiting and

spending time in all the dioceses’ parishes, including those

more remote from the city. I have always supported women’s

ordination without reserve. I would be happy to take part in

open conversations around a host of issues with congrega-

tions and their leaders: I enjoy the back-and-forth of dialogue,

and am unthreatened when others don’t agree with me. As

someone committed to global mission, I would look forward

to learning about cultures new to me among whom we might

minister. Finally during the interviews, I needed no persuading

[OH[�[OL�UL^�IPZOVW�ZOV\SK�JVTTLUJL�:WHUPZO�SLZZVUZ��

O Lord, you promise to be with your Church until the

end of the age: continue this good work as you raise

up the next Bishop of Dallas. Prepare this person to be

the pastor and spiritual leader who will lead us forward

to glorify you. We also ask that you send your Spirit

upon the committees and convention given the task of

calling our next bishop. Give them prayerful, open and

discerning hearts that they may hear your voice and do

`V\Y�^PSS�[V�M\SÄSS�`V\Y�W\YWVZL�MVY�[OPZ�KPVJLZL��

We ask all this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

www.DallasBishopSearch.org

www.edod.org

1630 N. Garrett AvenueDallas, Texas 75206

Documents

THE SEARCH FOR THE 7TH BISHOP of the Episcopal Diocese …552f034884349e39c21b-8b875e3029bffbbb2ae26854c7c51bc8.r80.cf2.rackcdn.…Gayle Kesinger, Saint Michael and All Angels - Dallas